Camp changes lives for campers and camp staff members. Ed Covert explains why camp changes lives for the better.

PEER: What do you think is the best job at camp?  

ED COVERT: Every job at camp is mission critical from my perspective. I know you’d probably expect a Camp Director to say that, but here is why I believe this to be true. Every summer, we have the opportunity to create the conditions for the hearts and souls of campers and staff to awaken to deep, deep love of God. So, as we take steps toward Jesus as a camp community, everyone has a significant role to play as we embrace God’s calling and purpose on our lives and the ministry of camp. If I had to pick a job that I would describe as first among equals, it would be the Cabin Leader. Cabin Leaders/Counselors are uniquely positioned to influence faith formation, new skill development, community life and fun for their campers.  

P: Is it true that lifeguards get a free paycheck?

EC: No. They earn every cent of their paychecks. As a former Waterfront Director, I can attest to the fact that the lifeguard position is often one of the more misunderstood positions.

P: If a young adult asked you why she should work at camp this summer, what would you say? 

EC: It is my belief that camp is the premier leadership develop academy in The Salvation Army. Camp is an immersive experience in temporary community that informs faith formation, introduces new roles and responsibilities, creates a network of lifelong friends and fuels the aspirational impulses that lead to calling and purpose. It is the best job you will ever have!

P: Where are Salvation Army camps located? 

EC: There is a Salvation Army camp operating in support of every Division and some corps (church).

P: Are there Salvation Army camps all across the United States? 

EC: Yes, there are camps operating in every US Territory and Canada. 

P: Are there Salvation Army camps all across the world? 

EC: Camping experiences are offered around The Salvation Army world, they just look a little different than the way we do camp in the U.S.

P: If someone is interested in working at camp, what are some next steps? 

EC: If interested in your local camp, you should contact your corps officer (pastor) or Divisional Youth Secretary (DYS) for the process to apply for the summer. If you are looking for opportunities around the Army Camp community you can find the camps listed at https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/equip-families/. If you are looking to pursue camp as a lifelong ministry opportunity, one great way to tap into our leadership pipeline is to enroll in the Passage Leadership Development Program. This is an eight month program for Salvation Army camp leaders that prepares emerging leaders for a life of ministry at camp. Check with your DYS for more info. 

How Has Working At A Camp Impacted You?

“It’s been the absolute perfect opportunity to use all my gifts for ministry! It’s also been amazing to be a part of a community where people come from many different backgrounds and gifts and yet we are all drawn together in our love of the Lord to minister. There are newer Christians to mentor and older Christians to be mentored by, and I learn so much about other cultures and teach others about mine. And yet we all belong to the same community in Christ! It’s been such a beautiful picture of the body of Christ.” — Victoria, 24 

“It was an amazing experience to be able to work at camp. It was not my first time [working at camp] but being able to come back and be in fellowship with new people was amazing. Seeing these kids have a smile on their face and getting to know God was amazing.” — Raul, 23